Whatever happened this year, a new mayor was always going to be guaranteed for the Southland District after long-serving mayor Frana Cardno stepped down. The top job went to Gary Tong, who edged out his competitors John Douglas and Paul Duffy.

Mr Tong says he will focus on making sure Central Government is kept up to date on the council's long-standing issue with roading.

Voters on the street in Invercargill this morning reflected the mood nationwide, with a low voter turn out across the country.

Mr Shadbolt quipped that this year was his easiest election campaign and he only spent $200 on a TV energy debate.

As the mayors came back, so did a lot of standing councillors around the region.

In Dunedin incumbent Dave Cull, is also back in for another term.

It is understood that the Southern District Health Board results will be available on Monday.

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